Nirvana

Biography

Nirvana was an American rock band that formed in Aberdeen, Washington, in 1987. It was founded by lead singer and guitarist Kurt Cobain and bassist Krist Novoselic. The band went through a series of drummers before Dave Grohl joined in 1990. Nirvana is credited with popularizing alternative rock and is often considered the flagship band of Generation X.

Formation and Early Years

Kurt Cobain and Krist Novoselic met while attending Aberdeen High School in Washington. After a few false starts with other musicians, they recruited drummer Aaron Burckhard in early 1987. The band used several names before settling on Nirvana in 1988. They released their first single, a cover of Shocking Blue's "Love Buzz," in November 1988 on the independent Seattle label Sub Pop.

Bleach

Nirvana released their debut album, *Bleach*, on Sub Pop on June 15, 1989. The album was recorded for just over $600 and featured Chad Channing on drums for most tracks. *Bleach* was well-received by critics but did not initially chart. The sound of the album was influenced by a mix of punk rock, heavy metal, and pop melodies, establishing their signature dynamic of quiet verses and loud, heavy choruses. Key tracks include "About a Girl," which was an early indicator of Cobain's pop sensibilities, and the heavier "Negative Creep" and "School."

Mainstream Breakthrough with Nevermind

After signing with major label DGC Records in 1990, and with Dave Grohl now on drums, Nirvana began recording their second album. *Nevermind*, released in September 1991, brought the band unexpected and massive mainstream success. The lead single, "Smells Like Teen Spirit," became an anthem for a generation, and its music video received heavy rotation on MTV. The album's success is credited with ending the dominance of hair metal and bringing alternative rock to a global audience. *Nevermind* topped the Billboard 200 chart, displacing Michael Jackson's *Dangerous*, and has sold over 30 million copies worldwide.

In Utero

For their third and final studio album, *In Utero*, released in September 1993, Nirvana sought a more abrasive and raw sound. They enlisted producer Steve Albini and recorded the album in two weeks. The album was a commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200, and was praised by critics for its raw and unconventional sound. Songs like "Heart-Shaped Box" and "All Apologies" showcased Cobain's lyrical depth and the band's musical experimentation. Despite its less polished sound, the album was a powerful statement from a band at the peak of its fame yet uncomfortable with its status.

Final Years and Disbandment

The pressures of fame took a toll on the band, particularly on Cobain, who struggled with drug addiction and the media attention. Tensions within the band also grew during this period. In March 1994, during a European tour, Cobain was diagnosed with severe bronchitis and laryngitis. The rest of the tour was canceled. On April 8, 1994, Cobain was found dead at his home in Seattle from a self-inflicted shotgun wound, effectively ending the band. Following Cobain's death, Nirvana disbanded. The live album *MTV Unplugged in New York* was released posthumously and won a Grammy Award.